LaptopsBy: Maria Hoossain

In this presentation, we will be learning about the components of a laptop and the science behind its creation. To start, we all know that a laptop is like a portable computer that is sufficient for use like traveling. However, we do not usually pay attention on how and why this is so. Throughout this presentation, we will learn all these different questions we have, together.

This picture shows different components of a laptop

There are more than 100 elements in the periodic table, some of these elements are found in a laptop. Many laptop bodies are made with aluminium which is used for its strength, light weight and appearance. Copper is a significant component used in wiring on circuit boards and to connect electrical factors. Carbon and nickel are also materials used for structural support and hardware like screws. The power source of the laptop is lithium-ion battery, these batteries contain cobalt, oxygen and carbon. Silicon is used to manufacture microchips. In addition, the laptop screen can include indium, gallium and arsenic and also includes precious metals like gold and platinum.

All of the parts in a laptop are either likely recyclable or likely hazardous. Parts of a laptop that can be recycled is the battery pack, metal chassis, parts of the motherboard and the plastic screen. Parts of a laptop that can be hazardous and are toxic is the lead found in circuit boards, other parts from the motherboard, and other components that include beryllium, cadmium and chromium. These components can carry toxic liquids that can cause deadly fires when the laptops are working for a long period of time, (heated up).

There are many parts of a laptop that are mined in different parts of the world. In China, most of these laptops are created and assembled together and shipped to different areas across the world such as the U.S. and Canada. But where do these elements that make these parts, come from? Copper that is used for the wiring, is found and mined in the largest copper mine in Utah (Bingham Canyon). Nickel, that is used for hardware like screws are produced in Russia, Canada, and Australia. Lithium that is used in batteries are mined in Chile. However, lithium is usually extracted from lithium minerals that can be found in igneous rocks. Gold, found in different places of laptops, are found all over the world including Canada, the United States, South Africa, Russia, Peru, China, Australia, Indonesia. Along with platinum, it is mined in Columbia and the western United States.

Laptops can be easily recycled, however the process is difficult. The process begins by becoming deconstructed by hand, this is due to hazardous substances. Afterwards, laptop plastic casings and circuit boards are treated with flame retardants. Monitors are filled with heavy metals like zinc, lead, chromium and cadmium. The lighting in laptops contains mercury, along with batteries. These parts are removed and shredded. Later when all the hazardous parts of the laptop are dealt with, the rest of it is ready to be recycled.

The length of time that a laptop is supposed to be used for is about 3 to 6 years. Whereas the length of time an average person keeps a laptop before it is replaced is between 4 to 5 years. It is a good idea to change your laptop and get a different brand so there would not be any viruses or problems with the laptops.

Map of Usage Rates

Largest Growth Markets

Societal pros and cons of a laptop is that laptops come in many different sizes, these variety of sizes are great for its use in terms of its portability. In this way, wherever you are, you can take your own personal laptop with you. A disadvantage would be its frequent upgrades to your laptops. These upgrades can enter viruses into laptops that can damage it to make it no longer usable.

Environmental pros and cons of a laptop is that laptops use less electricity than desktop computer do. As a result, desktops produce more carbon per hour than laptops do which is an advantage. A disadvantage would be that because laptops carry potentially dangerous lead in their batteries as well as polyvinyl chloride in wire coatings, it can give off toxic liquids if burned. Another advantage would be that if the laptops break or is damaged, it can be easily recycled to help the environment to stay healthy.

Economic pros and cons of laptops is that it is faster since it is an upgraded version of a desktop computer, it this way it can get more work done faster and easier. A disadvantage is that although these laptops are upgraded, it also means higher prices. Some of these laptops are very enhanced which makes these laptops sometimes very expensive to purchase.

Now that we have explored the science behind laptops creation, there are now questions that is answered that should be thought about since we use laptops almost everyday of our lives. This could be whether it is for school or work, but imagine how life would be like without technology nowadays, especially laptops. Thank you, and hope you enjoyed this presentation.